A statement from the retailer on Facebook over the weekend confirmed the closings. The company says the closings are a part of it focusing more on its online business.

The privately-held company is based in Cranberry, north of Pittsburgh. In the Facebook post, it called the decision to close the stores "difficult but necessary." Like many brick-and-mortar retailers, it has been battling declining mall traffic amid strong competition online.

The company didn't say how soon the stores will close, though its website is promoting store-closing sales.

According to The Consumerist, "Trouble at Rue21 first became public earlier this month when rumors began swirling that the chain was preparing to file for bankruptcy.

At the time, the company said it was 'working to improve its operations and enhance its liquidity position.'"

After the closings, the company will have more than 700 stores in 48 states.